Guelph remains at Level 1 Yellow
Do your part to conserve water!
Today, the Grand River Conservation Authority, a member of the Low Water Response Team, called a watershed-wide Level 1 Yellow due to dry conditions, low water levels in the Eramosa River and lack of rainfall.
The City of Guelph is part of the larger Grand River watershed and called a Level 1 Yellow as part of the Outside Water Use Program earlier this month after reaching the threshold for low rainfall, low local river flows and water demands.
We all have a role to play in conserving and protecting our water. During Level 1 Yellow lawn watering is restricted as follows:
• Alternate day and time restrictions are in effect. Odd–numbered houses may water only on odd-numbered calendar days, and even-numbered houses on even-numbered days, between 7 and 9 a.m. and 7 and 9 p.m., as needed.
• A permit is required for watering new lawns and treated lawns outside of alternate days and time restrictions. Call 519-822-1260 extension 2153 for permit information.
While the City is in Level 1 Yellow, you can still:
• Water trees, shrubs, flowers and gardens
• Use water for recreational sprinklers and splash pads
• Use water for residential swimming pools, wading pools and hot tubs
• Use water for at home car washes
Please do not install new lawns or add grass seed to lawns at this time. The City recommends planting new lawns in late summer or early fall instead, when outside temperatures are lower and precipitation is more reliable.
If conditions don’t improve the City will move to Level 2 Red. During Level 2 Red lawn watering and at home car washing are not permitted.
About the Outside Water Use Program:
The Outside Water Use Program is designed to curb high water use demand days. When there is low precipitation and high summer temperatures, water use increases. These days are a strain on Guelph’s water system. To lower water use in drought conditions the City asks residents to reduce their outside water use.
The program is actively enforced during levels 1 and 2 by the City’s By-law Enforcement Officers. By-law officers can issue a $130 ticket or court summons for each program violation.
Visit guelph.ca/water or call 519-822-1260 extension 2153 for more information about the Outside Water Use Program and for more tips on outdoor water conservation.